Teachers block access to Azteca Stadium 48 hours before World Cup kickoff

Tensions flared in Mexico City as thousands of dissident teachers blocked a key avenue leading to the Azteca Stadium just two days before the 2026 World Cup's opening match. The protest, organized by a faction of the CNTE education union, added a layer of disruption to the capital's preparations for the global soccer event.

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We see it as a provocation, as if to say 'look how bad the situation is in Mexico'.

The teachers are demanding higher salaries and the repeal of a pension law. Their demonstration saw them occupy streets near the stadium, though they did not breach the significant police and concrete barrier cordon established to contain them. After a rally lasting nearly three hours, the protesters dispersed peacefully, according to the city's security secretary.

Despite the demonstrations, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the World Cup opening ceremony is "guaranteed." She characterized the protests as a "provocation" aimed at portraying Mexico negatively. Sheinbaum asserted that while Mexico faces challenges, they are being addressed, and the social discontent does not pose a threat to the tournament.

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In Mexico there is no problem... there are many problems, but we address them, there is no issue that has to do with social discontent. The World Cup will be enjoyed just the same.

The Azteca Stadium is set to host the World Cup opener between Mexico and South Africa on Thursday. This marks Mexico's third time hosting the World Cup, previously in 1970 and 1986. The tournament, co-hosted with the United States and Canada, will conclude on July 19.

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The expression of the members of the teaching profession developed peacefully.